Name of the Procedure:

Drainage of abscess; submaxillary or sublingual, intraoral

Summary

This procedure involves draining an abscess located under the submaxillary or sublingual glands through an incision made inside the mouth. It helps to remove pus and reduce infection.

Purpose

The procedure aims to treat an abscess under the lower jaw or tongue that is causing pain, swelling, or infection. The expected outcome is relieved symptoms and prevention of further complications from the abscess.

Indications

• Swelling, pain, or tenderness in the submaxillary or sublingual area
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking due to swelling
• Fever or signs of infection originating from the glands
• Diagnosis of an abscess in imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan)

Preparation

• Fasting 6-8 hours before the procedure may be required.
• Blood tests and imaging studies to confirm the abscess and plan the drainage.
• Patients might need to adjust or stop certain medications as advised by their healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered local anesthesia to numb the area.
2. An intraoral incision is made inside the mouth to access the abscess.
3. The surgeon inserts a drainage tool to evacuate the pus from the abscess.
4. The abscess cavity is cleaned, and sometimes a drain might be placed.
5. Sutures are not commonly required as the incision is intraoral and minor.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital outpatient surgery department.

Personnel

• Oral surgeon or ENT specialist
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Damage to surrounding structures such as nerves or ducts
• Recurrence of the abscess

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Elimination of infection
• Improved ability to eat, speak, and swallow

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Pain management with prescribed medication.
• Rinse the mouth with saline or prescribed mouthwash to keep the incision site clean.
• Follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing.

Alternatives

• Antibiotic therapy for small, uncomplicated abscesses
• Needle aspiration with imaging guidance
• Surgical drainage via an external approach if intraoral drainage is not feasible

Patient Experience

Patients might feel slight discomfort during the procedure due to the incision and drainage but will have pain relief soon after. Post-procedure pain is generally managed with medications, and most patients feel significant symptom relief within a few days.